Akko V3 Crystal Pro vs. TTC Venus
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the TTC Venus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch to the TTC Venus linear switch, one immediately notices their distinct characteristics. The V3 Crystal Pro is renowned for its fully polycarbonate construction, offering a bright and chirpy sound signature with a silky smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the TTC Venus boasts a unique internal configuration that delivers a seamless glide and a captivating "Q-texture" resistance, giving it a matte sensation that is both smooth and engaging. While the V3 Crystal Pro is described as bouncy and polished, the Venus is characterized as buttery, gummy, and thocky. Both switches have their own appeal and benefits, but ultimately, the choice between them will depend on personal preference and typing style. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
48g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Polycarbonate
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
Lengthened 20.5mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the TTC Venus both showcase the unique characteristics of polycarbonate. The V3 Crystal Pro features a polycarbonate top and bottom housing, which creates a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile. This stiffness of polycarbonate leads to a clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for switches intended to be used with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Venus utilizes a POM top housing, which produces a deeper and more muted sound profile compared to the V3 Crystal Pro. While both materials offer distinct sound profiles, the polycarbonate used in the V3 Crystal Pro results in a sharper and crisper sound, while the POM in the Venus creates a more subdued tone.
In terms of aesthetics, the V3 Crystal Pro's polycarbonate housing allows for a translucent design, making it ideal for showcasing RGB lighting. This transparency highlights the vibrant colors of the lighting, adding a visually appealing element to the switch. On the contrary, the Venus's POM top housing does not offer the same level of translucency, resulting in a more opaque appearance. However, the subdued sound profile created by the POM material may appeal to users looking for a quieter typing experience compared to the sharper sound of the polycarbonate in the V3 Crystal Pro.
While both switches may utilize polycarbonate in either the top or bottom housing, the distribution of these materials results in different tactile experiences. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing impacts the sound when a key is released. Therefore, the combination of housing materials in each switch ultimately affects the overall typing experience, with the V3 Crystal Pro emphasizing a clear and resonant sound profile due to its polycarbonate top and bottom housing, whereas the Venus offers a deeper and more muted sound through its POM top housing.
Weight
In comparing the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the TTC Venus linear switch, the actuation and bottom out forces play a significant role in determining the typing experience. The V3 Crystal Pro has a slightly heavier actuation force of 48 grams compared to the Venus's 45 grams, making it a bit more resistant to accidental key presses. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the V3 Crystal Pro requires 60 grams, while the Venus only needs 52 grams, making the latter lighter in terms of the force needed to fully press the key. This difference in bottom out force may result in a smoother typing experience on the Venus switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference - whether one prefers a slightly heavier actuation force for precision or a lighter bottom out force for extended typing sessions.
Travel distance
Both the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the TTC Venus linear switch have a travel distance of 3.8mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing the travel distance of these two switches, it is clear that they offer the same amount of key travel for users to experience. This means that whether you choose the V3 Crystal Pro or the Venus linear switch, you can expect to receive similar results in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom. Overall, both switches provide a consistent and satisfying typing experience with their identical travel distances.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Crystal Pro for $3.30.
The TTC Venus has an MSRP of $7.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Venus for $5.09.
Here at Milktooth, we offer the best prices on switches (on average, 27% lower the competition). In addition, we offer free shipping on orders over $49.00. We also offer free returns and exchanges, so you can shop with guaranteed satisfaction.
That said, while price is an important piece of the puzzle, our opinion is that you should ultimately pick the option that most suits your unique preferences since you’ll be using these switches for years to come. In other words, finding something perfect for you is, in our view, the most important criteria.
Typing experience
When it comes to sound, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch offers a chirpy, distinctive sound that sets it apart from others. This unique acoustic signature adds a bit of charm to the typing experience. On the other hand, the TTC Venus linear switch provides a more low-pitched and muted sound profile, offering a quieter and more subdued auditory feedback. While the Crystal Pro presents a bright and lively sound, the Venus switch brings a more mellow and calming tone to each keystroke.
Moving on to feel, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro switch offers a bouncy and polished typing experience. With a spring-like feedback and a smooth finish, this switch provides a lively and refined feel with each press. On the contrary, the TTC Venus linear switch offers a buttery and frictionless sensation, allowing for a seamless and effortless typing experience. The gummy and mild qualities of the Venus switch further enhance the overall feel, ensuring a comfortable and approachable typing experience for users.
In conclusion, for those looking for a unique and chirpy sound with a bouncy and polished feel, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch is a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a more low-pitched and muted sound paired with a buttery and frictionless feel, the TTC Venus linear switch is the way to go. Both switches offer their own distinct qualities that cater to different preferences, ensuring that users will find typing enjoyment in either option. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and what specific sound and feel characteristics you are looking for in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the TTC Venus linear switch, consider the factors that are most important to you. If you prioritize a bright and chirpy sound signature with a silky smooth typing experience, the V3 Crystal Pro may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a unique matte sensation with a seamless glide and light actuation for rapid typing, the TTC Venus may be the ideal choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for sound and feel, as both switches offer distinct characteristics that cater to different typing experiences.
Mentioned in this article
